brand

Handwritten notes. Free product samples. Email responses to questions. And in some cases (shout-out to Surfing Cowboys in Malibu), an old-school phone call to discuss a gift item.

This is the kind of service that sets local businesses apart, offering personalized experiences you won’t find on Amazon.

From independent artists working at home to brands manufacturing in downtown Los Angeles, these businesses offer a diverse range of products and services that reflect the unique character of our city, which has been affected by wildfires, ICE raids and a struggling economy.

The gifts I’ve included here are all from Los Angeles-based businesses. They carry a personal touch — a connection to the people and the city. Some are handmade while others are manufactured, but all of them are a part of our city’s unique fabric.

Let’s keep it going and support small businesses in Los Angeles this holiday season. Our connection to one another is our strength.

If you make a purchase using some of our links, the L.A. Times may be compensated. Prices and availability of items and experiences in the Gift Guide and on latimes.com are subject to change.

A NEW airline has operated its first flight to London Heathrow.

On October 26, new airline Riyadh Air operated the flight to London Heathrow Airport.

This flight was the first of the airline’s daily launch flights between Riyadh and London Heathrow, which are being used to ensure they are ready to operate for the public.

Once it fully launches, the new airline will be based at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

Flights to London Heathrow will depart Riyadh at 3:15am and arrive in London at 7:30am.

The return flight will then depart London at 9:30am and arrive in Riyadh at 7:15pm.

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The new airline is hoping to fly to 100 destinations by 2030, as part of the Saudi Aviation Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy.

The airline stated: “Further exciting new routes are set to be announced in the coming weeks for winter 2025 and summer 2026.”

The airline’s CEO Tony Douglas said earlier this year: “We’re not going public with the full list until we’ve got all the slots.

“But Western Europe is essential.”

The aircraft used for the first flight, named ‘Jamila’, is a Boeing 787-9 technical spare aircraft and only employees and invited guests were on the flight.

The airline is still awaiting its first deliveries from Boeing, having ordered 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in February, with options to add another 33 in the future.

Also earlier this year, the airline revealed the interior of its business class suites.

Inside its ‘Business Elite’ cabins, passengers will find speakers built into the headrest of their chair, which can also be turned into a double bed.

The cabins will be arranged in a 1-2-1 layout on board the plane, with the airline saying that they will compare to those found in Emirates’ first class.

If you are in one of the middle two cabins, and know the person next to you, you can always change it into a double bed.

As for entertainment, passengers can watch films and series on a 31-inch screen – which is set to be the biggest in business class, on any airline.

Of course there will be multiple USB ports, power outlets and wireless charging pads as well for charging devices.

Cabins will also have sliding doors for privacy.

On the other hand, premium economy will be “more like business” class, but it won’t feature lie-flat seats.

In economy, passengers will then have 13.3 inch screens and USB-C charging ports.

The airline is expected to be super high tech as well, with the possibility of biometric scans instead of boarding passes.

However, passengers shouldn’t expect to get any alcohol onboard, as Saudi Arabia has strict laws on booze which mean it’s been banned since 1952.

The airline also recently announced its loyalty programme called ‘Sfeer’.

Sfeer members will be able to share points within the community, which will allow family and friends to increase their membership levels, as well as their benefits.

The loyalty programme will be fully active in 2026, and will also include gamified features such as challenges and leaderboard competitions.

The points will never expire and can be used to get special culinary and entertainment experiences, as well as opportunities to win free flights and other prizes.

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BRILLIANT sunlight flickered against a blue, cloudless sky. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for my 10km hike around Derwentwater, the third largest lake in the Lake District.

Trundling along the grassy trail with a flask of coffee in hand, every direction I turned in offered impressive sights of sweeping mountaintops and the motionless body of water below.

The views are simply spectacular and should have been reward enough for my valiant hiking efforts.

But I was already thinking about the pint waiting for me back at the newly refurbished Royal Oak.

Slap bang in the middle of Keswick, this pub with rooms re-opened only a few months ago following a £1million facelift by its owner, Thwaites. And what a good job they’ve done.

Downstairs, the bar area is full of cosy nooks with huge armchairs to relax in, while the dining area is awash with indoor plants and countryside- inspired touches that make it feel more like a home than a pub.

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Add a roaring fireplace and dog-friendly bedrooms to the mix and you’ve got a proper ramblers’ paradise.

I was staying in one of the upper-floor bedrooms, where the piping-hot showers are a soothing antidote to aching muscles after tackling the surrounding hilly landscape.

Each of the 18 rooms reflects a similar ambience to the main pub, with rustic wooden headboards backing plump beds and autumnal coloured curtains that give the space a woodland feel.

Modern bathrooms feature fancy toiletries from Lake District company Bath House, while flat-screen smart TVs make it all too easy to enjoy a lazy lie-in.

Make sure you don’t sleep too late, though, as you wouldn’t want to miss out on breakfast.

The kitchen dishes up cracking homemade grub, most of which is sourced locally. Think loaded fry-ups with fat, juicy sausages and pub classics like fish and chips with mushy peas.

I kept things simple at dinner with a 10oz rib-eye steak which came with a roasted vine tomato, mushroom, rocket and chunky chips that were very moreish – all washed down with a bottle of red.

If the food and decor aren’t enough of a selling point, then the location of the Royal Oak sure will be.

At the centre of a charming high street, the pub is within walking distance of quaint wine shops, boutique clothing stores and excellent bakeries, including the newly opened Snack Shack.

I’ve never seen more sausage rolls stacked in a window before! That was all the persuading I needed to buy one. A great idea – the pastry was buttery and flakey and the caramelised onion filling was a delicious touch.

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, take a wander to Keswick market, where you’ll find stalls selling all sorts of local food, products – and more flat caps than you’d see in an old folks’ home.

If you prefer to carry on rambling, I’d recommend making the journey to Cat Bells fell.

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But only if you’re up for a challenge, as the summit is equivalent in height to ten Big Bens stacked on top of one another. I reckon I was about seven high when I decided to give up.

People in the Lakes are made of sturdier stuff than I – it’s probably those sausage rolls.

VICTORIA Beckham has lost a trademark war against a beauty brand — because she is not famous enough in Norway.

Posh Spice argued that Norwegian firm Vendela Beauty’s VB logo would be confused with her global brand.

She claimed both the designs were dominated by the ­letters VB, the layout was almost identical, and both businesses sell similar products.

The fashion designer, 51, provided Instagram followers, international magazine features and sales figures to prove she had a big presence in the country.

But Norway’s patent body decided that there was not enough evidence her brand was well-known enough in the Nordic state — and ruled they were ­different enough to avoid confusion.

Ex-swimwear model Vendela Kirsebom had filed a trademark application in September 2021 for her beauty brand, which sells a range of skincare, makeup, hair care and ­fragrance products.

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It was registered in December 2023, before Victoria ­formally opposed it.

But the Norwegian Industrial Property Office ruled against her.

Senior legal adviser Tord Hestenes wrote in the judgment that while Victoria is well known in the industry, it “does not mean that her initials or the combined mark can be considered well-known for this reason alone”.

He said her evidence had limited value because her follower count did not actually show how many were in Norway.

He added that it had not been successfully proved how many Norwegians read the international magazines cited, and the sales figures provided covered the entire Nordic region — not just Norway.

Mr Hestenes ruled there was “no risk of confusion” over the brands.

He added: “Documentation in the case does not provide grounds for assuming that the ­opponent’s mark will be linked to the name ­Victoria Beckham.”

Victoria’s representatives have been approached for comment on the verdict.

Netflix is looking to capitalize on the popularity of its animated movie “KPop Demon Hunters” — and continue its foray into the retail space.

Netflix on Tuesday announced a licensing deal with toy makers Mattel Inc. and Hasbro Inc. to make dolls, action figures, plushies, youth electronics and other items based on “KPop Demon Hunters,” a movie about a trio of powerful singers and demon hunters who protect the world from dangerous demons.

“KPop Demon Hunters” has been a worldwide hit since its release in June, becoming Netflix’s most-watched film with more than 325 million views in its first 91 days on the streaming service.

The licensing deals come as Netflix has been aggressively partnering with brands to expand the fandom of its shows and movies.

Next month, Netflix will open the first of several planned physical locations called Netflix House where it will host experiences based on its programs and sell food and merchandise.

“KPop Demon Hunters unleashed a global fan frenzy,” said Marian Lee, Netflix’s chief marketing officer, in a statement. “Netflix, Mattel and Hasbro joining forces on this first-of-its-kind collaboration means fans can finally get their hands on the best dolls, games, and merchandise they’ve been not-so-subtly demanding on every social platform known to humanity.”

Under the partnership, Hasbro and Mattel will both become global co-master toy licensee to “KPop Demon Hunters.”

Netflix has had other partnerships with other toy makers, including Squishmallows for shows like sci-fi series “Stranger Things” and Lego sets based on pirates tale “One Piece.”

The Los Gatos, Calif., company has also launched in-person experiences such as balls based on the Regency era romance series “Bridgerton.”

“KPop Demon Hunters is a powerful pop culture phenomenon with global resonance—one that aligns seamlessly with our portfolio of iconic brands and our commitment to innovation,” said Tim Kilpin, Hasbro’s president of toy, licensing, and entertainment, in a statement.

THE opening date for a massive £160 million train station servicing London is just days away – and all destinations and ticket fares have finally been revealed.

It is the first new station on the East Coast line for 100 years, and will be a massive boost for thousands of commuters.

As previously reported, Beaulieu Park Station in Chelmsford is being built in the north of the city and is part of a huge regeneration project in the area.

It will provide frequent trains to-and-from London Liverpool Street in just 40 minutes and opens on Sunday, October 26, 2025.

The mega station will have three platforms, a new track for passing, faster trains, plus a taxi rank, drop-off areas and bus connections. 

There will also be more than 750 parking spaces for people to leave their vehicles while using the trains.

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Parking charges start from £3.50 for an hour rising to £11.50 for the day.

London Liverpool Street connects over 100 million people annually and is one of the UK’s busiest stations.

An off-peak day return from Beaulieu Park Station to London Liverpool Street is priced at £28.20, while seven-day season tickets will cost £134.60.

A day return to London Liverpool Street during peak hours will cost travellers £42.60.

For those travelling to and from Stratford, the costs are £22.60 for an off-peak ticket, £19.70 for a standard day single and £35.30 for a standard day return.

The new service will also service Southend Airport, with tickets costing £16.90 for a standard day single, £24.10 for a standard day return, and £21.30 for a child day return. 

Residents of other cities such as Ipswich and Norwich will also benefit from Beaulieu Park Station.

The full list of fares and services is available from operator Greater Anglia.

Major upgrade

The new station is part of a major upgrade to the city.

This includes the construction of new roads and up to 14,000 new homes.

Of these, more than 4,000 homes have received planning permission so far, with 2,000 of those already built.

The project has been years in the making.

The original planning permission was granted in 2013.

Work has been ongoing since 2023 with the opening date finally on the horizon.

Chelmsford has a huge commuter rail service that sees over 15,000 passengers every day and 5.7 million annual users.

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The development of Beaulieu Park has also been put in place to try and relieve congestion in the city centre.

The new north-eastern bypass will make access to the new station from surrounding towns such as Braintree much easier.

There’s A New Train Operator In Town …

They hope to challenge Eurostar with trips across the Channel…

A brand-new train operator is hoping to launch services between the UK and Europe, offering ‘competitive fares’ for passengers.

Currently, Eurostar is the only rail operator that connects the UK to destinations across Europe, including cities in France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

This could all change as a new train operating company, Gemini,has announced its plans to launch services between the UK and Europe.

The new train operator, which is currently being established, hopes to begin its rail journey by launching services from London to Paris and Brussels.

Once services between London and Paris/Brussels have launched, Gemini hopes to further its list of European destinations.

The new rail operator plans to introduce ‘new cutting-edge trains and a fresh approach to sales and ticketing’ on services between the UK and Europe.

Inside a historic aircraft hangar in Playa Vista, crowds of people gathered on Thursday to browse the latest fashions from handbags to clothing and shoes as they prepared for the holiday shopping season.

These weren’t shoppers or retailer buyers browsing for the latest products. Instead, they were YouTube video creators who were being courted by brands from Lowe’s to Shark Beauty to encourage online audiences to buy their products.

Aaron Ramirez, a 22-year-old influencer who focuses on men’s fashion and lifestyle, stood in front of racks of carefully curated shelves of backpacks as he decided which items he would endorse for his 234,000 YouTube subscribers.

“I can make a video about anything that improves my quality of life and add a link to it,” said Ramirez. “I only recommend products that I really use and really like.”

The San Diego resident was among about 300 creators participating in YouTube’s annual benefit for creators dubbed “Holiday House” that helps internet personalities get ready to sell goods during the busy holiday shopping season.

The event — held at the cavernous converted Google offices that once housed Howard Hughes’ famous Spruce Goose plane — underscores YouTube’s desire to be a bigger player in online shopping by leveraging its relationship with creators to promote products in much the same way that rival TikTok does.

In August, YouTube introduced new tools to help its creators better promote products they plug in their videos. One feature uses AI to identify the optimal place on the screen to put a shopping link when an influencer mentions a product. If a customer clicks on that link and makes a purchase, the creator gets a commission.

Brands that were once skeptical about influencers have embraced them over time as sales-tracking tools have improved and the fan base of video creators has mushroomed.

“It’s like the people that you saw on television and before that the people that you listened to on radio who became the trusted personalities in your life,” Earnest Pettie, a trends insight lead at YouTube, said in an interview. “Oprah’s Favorite Things was a phenomenon because of how trusted Oprah was, so it really is that same phenomenon, just diffused across the creator ecosystem.”

Despite economic uncertainty and tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, shoppers in the U.S. are expected to spend $253.4 billion online this holiday season, up 5.3% from a year ago, according to data firm Adobe Analytics.

Social media platforms have helped drive some of that growth. The market share of online revenue in purchases guided by social media affiliates and partners, including influencers, is expected to grow 14%, according to Adobe Analytics.

Cost-conscious consumers are doing more research on how they spend their money, including watching influencer recommendations. In fact, nearly 60% of 14- to 24-year-olds who go online say their personal style have been influenced by content they’ve seen on the internet, according to YouTube.

“It’s more about discovery, understanding where the best deals are, where the best options are,” said Vivek Pandya, director at Adobe Digital Insights. “Many of these users are getting that guidance from their influencers.”

YouTube is one of the top streaming platforms, harnessing 13.1% of viewing time in August on U.S. TV sets, more than rivals Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, according to Nielsen. And shopping-related videos are especially popular among its viewers, with more than 35 billion hours watched each year, according to YouTube.

With YouTube’s shopping feature, viewers can see products, add them to a cart and make purchases directly from the video they’re watching.

Promoting and enabling one-click e-commerce from video has been huge in China, triggering a wave across Asia and the world of livestreaming and recorded shopping videos. Live commerce, also known as live shopping or livestreaming e-commerce, is a potent mix of streaming, chatting and shopping.

The temptation to shop is turbocharged with algorithms like that of TikTok Shop, enticing people to try more channels and products.

1

2

1. YouTube content creators Diana Extein, left, and Candice Waltrip, right, film clothing try-ons during YouTube’s Holiday House shopping event at Google Spruce Goose on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025 in Playa Vista, CA. 2. YouTube content creator Peja Anne, 15, makes a video with beauty products as her mom Kristin Roeder films during YouTube’s Holiday House shopping event at Google Spruce Goose on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025 in Playa Vista, CA.

A YouTube content creator who declined to give her name browses YouTube’s Holiday House shopping event at Google Spruce Goose on Thursday in Playa Vista, Calif.

YouTube content creator Cheraye Lewis’ channel focuses on lifestyle and fragrance, and a brand deal with Fenty Beauty helped launch her content to larger audiences.

More than 500,000 video creators as of July have signed up to be a part of YouTube Shopping, the company said.

Creators who promote products can make money through ads and brand deals, as well as commissions.

YouTube already shares advertising and subscription revenue with its creators and currently does not take a cut from its shopping tools, said Travis Katz, YouTube Shopping vice president.

“For us, it’s really about connecting the dots,” Katz said. “At YouTube we are first and foremost very focused on, how do we make sure that our creators are successful? This gives a new way for creators to monetize.”

Companies like Austin-based BK Beauty, which was founded by YouTube creator Lisa J, said YouTubers have helped drive sales for their products.

“They’ve built these long-term audiences,” said Sophia Monetti, BK Beauty’s senior manager of social commerce and influencer marketing. “A lot of these creators have established channels. They’ve been around for a decade and have just a really engaged community.”

To be sure, YouTube faces a formidable rival in TikTok, which is a leader in the live shopping space (its parent company, Byte Dance, is being sold to an American investor group so that the hugely popular app can keep operating in the U.S.).

Two years ago, the social video company launched TikTok Shop, working with creators and brands on live shopping shows that encourage viewers to buy products. TikTok had 8 million hours of live shopping sessions in 2024.

YouTube says its size and technology create advantages, along with the loyalty its creators build with fans when it comes to product recommendations.

Bridget Dolan, a director of YouTube Shopping Partnerships, said “shopping has been in YouTube’s DNA from Day One” and that the company has been integrating shopping features into its viewing experience.

YouTube content creators peruse products and film content during YouTube’s Holiday House shopping event at Google Spruce Goose on Thursday in Playa Vista, Calif.

Santa Clarita-based YouTube creator Cheraye Lewis said that YouTube Shopping helped her gain traction and earn a trusting audience through quality recommendations. Lewis, who has 109,000 subscribers on YouTube, makes videos about items such as fragrances and skincare products.

Lewis has been a video creator for eight years and has worked with such companies as Rihanna’s beauty brand Fenty.

“I try to inspire women and men to feel bold and confident through the fragrances that they’re wearing,” Lewis said at the event Thursday. “I give my audience real talk, real authenticity.”

AN ANIMAL charity has called out Katie Price with a brutal Halloween-themed costume and addressing what they deem the “grim fate” of pets in her care.

The shock seasonal dress-up attire, courtesy of PETA, comes against the backdrop of a petition designed at preventing the former glamour model from being a pet-mum, which has now reached more than 37,000 signatures.

It has also reared its head weeks after Katie, 47, welcomed a new puppy to her home.

Previously, the animal rights charity offered the mum of five a whopper £5,000 sum to stop her owning more animals – something which she rejected.

Now they have gone one step further to make their point, creating a £34.99 outfit mimicking KP.

It includes a mask resembling the I’m A Celeb star, a vest with the slogan Grim Reaper and a very eerie coffin filled with animals.

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To complete the spooky look, there’s a black and silver scythe included within the Grim Reaper for Pets get-up.

Talking of the significance of the October outfit, PETA Vice President for UK and Europe Mimi Bekhechi told MirrorOnline: “Too many animals have met a grim fate under Katie Price’s ‘guardianship.’

“This Halloween costume may be a joke – but the message is not: being responsible for lives and needs of animals who are entirely dependent on you is serious business.

“And anyone who doesn’t treat it as such needs to stick to stuffed toys.”

They added of the costume: “All proceeds support work to promote responsible animal guardianship, as well as spay/neuter surgeries to help fight the homeless-animal overpopulation crisis!”

Recently, Katie’s home life was thrown into chaos last month when her cat Doris had kittens, yet they became seriously unwell.

NEW POOCH

Earlier this month, Katie took to her Snapchat page to showcase her new tiny puppy cuddling on her shoulder as she told fans she was “so tired”.

In another slide, she spoke of her new family member purely to say: “And this little one just does not leave my side.

“I can’t wait for him to meet Rookie, he’s met all of the other animals.

“This is Rookie’s new little friend for when we go horse riding, walks, everything.”

Katie was recently slammed for allegedly putting black dog Rookie in danger as she headed on a horse ride.

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It came just weeks after she was called out by the animal charity over a “dangerous” move which saw her dog hanging out of her car window.

PET BACKLASH

A petition was previously created to stop Katie from owning animals amid concern for their welfare in her care.

It came about after a number of complaints from fans over how she handles the multiple animals she has owned over the years.

Over the years, a number of tragic incidents involving Katie’s pets have been revealed.

This includes her German Shepherd guard dog being killed after being hit by a vehicle on the A24, which was close to Katie’s East Sussex home.

It happened just seven months after another of Katie’s dogs, Sharon, was killed on the same road.

Katie’s horse was also killed on the A24, after it broke free from her field.

In 2020, her French Bulldog Rolo suffocated after being squashed underneath a chair.

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Katie also had to give away an out-of-control Alsatian, Bear, for attacking other animals.

A small segment of her furious followers have then quizzed “how are you allowed to keep animals?” as they voiced their anger.

The English Riviera is a 22-mile stretch of the South Devon coast with Torquay at its northern end. It’s sometimes compared to the French Riviera, but it’s a very different place

Stand on the promenade of this legendary seaside resort when the weather’s pleasant, and you could easily mistake yourself for being somewhere on the Mediterranean rather than in Britain. Lines of palm trees flutter in the wind, waves gently wash onto an expansive sandy shore and gleaming art-deco structures perch on the hillside overhead.

Take a closer look, though, and there are telltale signs you’re actually on the English coast rather than somewhere along the French Riviera. Reach reporter Milo Boyd is pretty sure traditional fish and chip outlets, seaside souvenir shops and penny arcade machines aren’t common sights along the Côte d’Azur.

And whilst a typical July afternoon in this Devon resort of 50,000 residents reaches around 20C with some cloud cover, the French Riviera basks in 29C temperatures with glorious sunshine and clear blue skies.

Parallels drawn between the Devon shoreline and the glamorous French destination date back to Victorian times, when tourists likened the mild microclimate and stunning landscape of Torbay – a 22-mile section of the South Devon coast with Torquay at its northern tip – to the 186 miles of the original Riviera.

Whilst the French Riviera sometimes faces criticism for being overly warm, rather posh, and costly, Torquay regularly receives brutal assessments of an entirely different nature.

Actually, it appears to attract an unfair share of criticism, reports Devon Live.

Last year, a Which? survey declared Torquay as Brits’ most disliked seaside destination, whilst The Telegraph ranked it as their 13th most disappointing coastal location.

Even one of Milo’s taxi drivers couldn’t resist having a dig, branding the high street as a “dump”. The decision-making process of these competition judges is a mystery to him, and their lack of taste in coastal spots is evident.

After a weekend getaway in Torbay, Milo was captivated and intrigued by Torquay, a seaside town unlike any other he has encountered in the UK.

Food and drink in Torquay

One of the town’s most appealing and tasty features is its food. Sure, you can find the traditional cod and chips every 10m along the seafront as you would in most UK seaside towns, but Torquay has much more to offer.

Milo had the good fortune to get a quick tour of the town’s food scene through an invitation to the 7 Chefs event on 4 October. Over seven hours, guests are treated to seven different seafood dishes, each crafted by a different chef and served in a different independent restaurant.

This annual event is highly sought after, making stops at the Michelin-starred Elephant for some braised octopus, the sibling-run Ollie’s for a generous lobster thermidor, delicately prepared oysters at No. 7 Fish Bistro and Offshore for its unique take on mussels with katsu.

If you fancy indulging in top-quality seafood and British-produced wines, then this event is perfect for you.

It might only happen once annually and set you back £120, but you’ll require a solid 364 days to recover after tackling diver-caught scallops at The Yacht, a generous helping of fish and chips at Pier Point, and cheese with far too much port at Twenty1 Lounge.

“Lightweight,” one of my fellow foodie companions shouted after me as he ordered another couple of reds for good measure, whilst Milo hauled his aching frame into a taxi.

The event also runs in Brixham on the opposite side of the bay.

The vibrant, boutique village houses one of England’s largest fishing markets and restaurants, including Olive, The Prince William, and The Mermaid, where many of the 40 fish and shellfish varieties landed here are consumed.

‘The Queen of the English Riviera’

Torquay is often dubbed ‘the Queen of the English Riviera’, and rightfully so.

On a bright day, the magnificent art deco properties crown the hillside overlooking the bay, sparkling in the sunlight like gems in a tiara.

Torbay lies just beyond the western tip of the Jurassic Coast and comprises Devonian limestones intersected with red ochre deposits.

These form a intricate landscape featuring elements like the wave-carved Berry Head platform and natural caves. On a Sunday afternoon, Milo was given a tour by Nigel Smallbones, the ranger at Berry Head Nature Reserve for 27 years.

He showed Milo the roosting spot of a 1,600-strong guillemot colony, the cave system where his son monitors the 56 resident horseshoe bats, and explained how rock enthusiasts travel from as far as China to appreciate the geology.

A short half-hour drive around the bay led me to Kents Cavern – a prehistoric cave system unearthed by some tough Victorians. It’s an awe-inspiring place that continues to yield significant scientific discoveries, including the jawbone of a Neolithic girl likely devoured by cave hyenas, and a colossal bear skull.

If exploring a cavern filled with stalagmites and stalactites isn’t your cup of tea, just up the road lies a piece of British comedy history – the hotel that inspired John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers. Perhaps due to its somewhat infamous association, the hotel has since been replaced by a block of flats and a commemorative blue plaque.

One stark difference between the Rivieras is their approach to drinking. Milo was genuinely taken aback and impressed by the amount his fellow restaurant-goers consumed, and how some managed to stomach a full English breakfast on a sunrise boat trip the next morning.

Such passion and resilience would be hard to find on the French Riviera.

Locals he spoke with admitted that Torquay’s nightlife isn’t what it used to be, with several mourning the loss of two clubs that once offered unlimited drinks for under a tenner.

Nevertheless, the party atmosphere endures through the 1,200-capacity Arena Torquay, which is hosting an Ibiza throwback evening next week, alongside a string of bars along the quayside.

With roaming packs of stag and hen parties, some donning lederhosen in honour of Oktoberfest, Torquay remains regarded as a cracking spot for a night out.

Devon’s temperate climate and breezy conditions mean its flourishing vineyard industry creates light, refreshing wines that complement seafood perfectly – a fortunate match.

Torquay also boasts several gin distilleries.

Laurance Traverso, director of the Coastal Distillery Co, served me a delightful G&T from his waterside headquarters.

So what’s behind the animosity?

There’s undoubtedly a segment of the British public that simply doesn’t rate Torquay.

If you rock up for a family break and have the bad luck of being drenched for seven days straight, Milo can see their point.

Some townsfolk have grown fed up with the high street and how districts beyond the seafront and tourist hotspots have deteriorated.

Local Sophie Ellis-Marsden revealed: “I avoid that end of town. I don’t have much nice to say, to be honest. The waterfront is lovely, and that’s the only thing that is.

“It’s nice, don’t get me wrong, I moved here from Milton Keynes for the sea, but it needs more work. More shops just seem to be shutting down. Everything’s gone, and I don’t really know why.”

The local authority appears determined to tackle these problems head-on.

Significant investment has already been made, with much more planned for the future.

The Strand at the harbourside has been transformed into a piazza-style promenade, featuring expanded pedestrian zones for dining and seating, plus improved public transport connections.

A former Debenhams department store is earmarked for demolition, to be replaced with new homes, cafés, restaurants, and an upmarket hotel.

Additional proposals are in the works for the town centre, along with further development at The Strand, which the council estimated would create approximately 80 full-time jobs, £32 million in wages, and attract 86,000 new visitors over a 30-year period.

The total cost of the scheme is reported to be £70 million.

MAKE-UP lovers have spotted Home Bargains is selling a fancy brand that usually costs £33 for just £6.

The budget retailer has slashed the price of some make-up must-haves from the cult favourite BareMinerals.

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Bargain hunters can make savings of up to 78% in an online only deal that includes a range of moisturisers, lip gloss, and more.

Beauty fans can snap up the popular Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturiser for just £6.99 down from £33 in a variety of shades.

Other goodies include a Mineralist Lip Gloss-Balm for a steal at £4.99 down from £23 and the Barepro Pressed Powder Foundation for £6.99.

Premium make-up

The premium make-up brand’s tinted moisturiser provides a great option if you’re looking for natural, breathable coverage that looks after your skin with its added SPF 30 protection.

It’s described as an “oil free, mineral-based moisturiser offering sheer-to-light coverage, broad spectrum SPF 30, and a clean matte finish.”

You can take your pick too with a range of moisturisers to choose from depending on skin tone that will also help improve skin texture.

The pressed powder foundation “instantly blurs the appearance of pores, fine lines, and imperfections”.

It’s infused with Shea Butter, Cacao Butter and Vitamin E that will help protect and improve your skin.

What’s better is that it comes with a convenient puff applicator which makes it perfect for use on the go.

While the lip-gloss balm will “deeply hydrate and smooth lips, instantly and over time” while adding a glossy shine.

The product is great for both everyday wear and statement lips and claims to make them up to 50% smoother.

BareMinerals was launched in 1995 and touts itself as the “original clean beauty brand.”

The brand was founded by Leslie Blodgett who said she wanted to start a makeup line that helped you achieve beauty that was more than skin deep.

“I always felt that beauty was something you felt, and it came with confidence, and it came with feeling good physically and emotionally,” she says.

More Beauty Bargains

There’s plenty more beauty products to be had for great prices at retailers too.

Just this week, beauty fans were racing to TK Maxx to nab a £20 discount on Charlotte Tillbury’s cream with another viral product in their hair aisle.

A TikTok user revealed the store is stocking a huge haul of high-end makeup and haircare – including the cult classic Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream for nearly half the price.

A shopper also recently shared how they spotted dupes of P.Louise’s five-star rated lip kits for just £3 in B&M.

Considering the cult-favourite product is usually £22 – the similar-looking products could be ideal for those on a budget.

And beauty fans have been racing to pick up the Boots beauty advent calendar filled with £289 worth of products.

The 24-day calendar includes an impressive 20 full-size skincare items, including bestsellers from Round Lab, Cetaphil and Byoma.

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Pitch Golf has opened in Manchester, and Mirror man Matt Atherton went along to play a round at St Andrews – with mixed results

A brand new indoor golf experience has opened in Manchester city centre, and we went along to give it a whirl.

It’s exactly what it sounds like – a round of golf without having to lug a heavy club bag around for miles, and it’s just what this amateur (really, really bad) golfer needed.

Players are given the chance to sit down in a cushty golf bay, away from the judgemental eyes of a posh golf course’s driving range. You’ll simply choose whether you want to just smash a few balls, or try your hand at dozens of the world’s most famous courses, with some pretty decent clubs at your disposal.

I haven’t played a round of golf for about 15 years, and even then it wasn’t really playing. I managed to get my handicap down to about +35 before putting my clubs down once and for all.

So, it was particularly refreshing to be able to get back in the swing of things without anyone watching. I simply headed to Pitch Golf’s driving range, and stepped up to the plate.

The bay uses Trackman technology, which basically means the AI watches your swing, impact zone on the ball, and swing power, to analyse exactly where the golf ball would end up in the real world. You can switch between a trusty pitching wedge to zero-in on your target, or whack out the driver and smash it as hard as you can.

Clearly I’d been out of practice for a while, and my golf play lacked professionalism, shall we say? But, the incredible technology really opened my eyes to how I could improve my game, if I wanted to keep pursuing it. A handy trainer captures your entire movements on camera, and then replays it to you, so you can see exactly where you’re going wrong when you smash the ball into a lake (speaking from experience).

Within half an hour I was hitting the ball generally in the right direction, topping 150yards each shot. The screen even shows you the flight path of each shot, so you can make subtle improvements to absolutely nail your target.

Quite rightly, after an hour I figured I was ready for one of the world’s most challenging courses, St Andrews, playing off the ‘Champion tees’. It ended as predictably as imagined.

I managed to finish with a triple bogey on the first hole… mainly because the computer took pity on me and just waved me through to the next hole. But, aside from that embarrassment, the AI scenery was stunning. The visuals matched the iconic scenes of St Andrews’s opening hole – so much so that when I sent a picture to my family asking “Where am I?”, someone quickly replied: “St Andrews?!”.

Pitch Manchester isn’t just somewhere to practice your golf, though. It’s a great social setting that prides itself on being open to everyone – not just the clubhouse gang in their posh polo shirts and chinos.

It features a bar with a great selection of drinks, as well as the usual pub luxuries; shuffle board, Sky Sports, and a great kitchen team. The menu features a special selection of Asian-inspired dishes, which is perfect for scoffing a mouthful between swings.

Even as you enter the facility, you’re greeted by a shop with all of the latest gear you’ll be needing to hit the links. It mimics the exact feel of a clubhouse, without the beginners feeling out of place.

Meanwhile, if you’re heading to Manchester city centre and need somewhere to stay, it’s definitely worth considering the Marriott Piccadilly Hotel.

It’s central location is perfect for those needing access to Piccadilly train station, and its views over the city are second-to-none.

There’s plenty of space to put your feet up after a busy day, and the next morning you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast, featuring everything you’d ever need to kickstart your day.

SAMANTHA Cameron’s luxury fashion brand Cefinn is set to shut its doors after eight years.

The wife of former PM Lord Cameron said the decision was “very hard”, but admitted industry pressures had made it impossible for the label to stay afloat.

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Cefinn’s next winter collection, launching later this month, will be its final offering.

The brand will continue to trade through its London stores and its website in the coming months, allowing customers to snap up the remaining pieces.

Lady Cameron, who worked in fashion before her move to No10, has had her label celebrated for its stylish yet practical designs for modern women.

It has been worn by both Princess Kate and Queen Camilla.

But retail firms have been hit hard by the Labour Government’s hikes to the minimum wage and employers’ National Insurance contributions in April, as well as the impact of rising business rates.

It comes as plus-size fashion brand Live Unlimited has filed a note of intent to appoint administrators this week.

Public filings reveal that the firm has enlisted advisers from Irwin Mitchell to manage the process.

A note of intent typically gives a retailer ten days before it officially goes bust, although this can be cut shorter if needed.

The label was launched in 2012 and has been stocked online and in-store by both Next and John Lewis.

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SPOONS SPICE

WETHERSPOONS is adding Irish takeaway dish The Spice Bag to its menus in England, Scotland and Wales later this month.

From September 17, punters can enjoy the salt and chilli chicken strips dish, including red onion, chillies and coriander, for £8.99 with a soft drink — or £10.52 with a pint.

Sarah Shaw of the pub chain said: “It has already proven extremely popular with customers in our Republic of Ireland pubs.”

WASHINGTON — The United Nations mission in Afghanistan reported recently that U.S. airstrikes and Afghan security forces killed more civilians in the first half of 2019 than the Taliban did.

The mission says “pro-government forces” killed 717 civilians while “anti-government forces” killed 531, and 118 deaths could not be attributed.

U.S. officials dispute the numbers. But if the U.N. is right, Afghans face greater danger of death from their government and its allies than from the Taliban, even counting a recent series of grisly car bombings in Kabul.

In Syria and Iraq, the U.S.-led coalition estimates that its airstrikes and artillery killed 1,321 noncombatants in the war against Islamic State since U.S. forces intervened in 2014 — but Airwars, an independent monitoring group, says at least 8,106 were killed.

In Yemen, where Saudi Arabia’s military is using U.S. intelligence to bomb Iran-backed Houthi insurgents with U.S.-supplied munitions, the U.N. says almost 20,000 civilians have been killed. Last week, a U.N. panel accused both sides of war crimes and warned that the United States may be complicit.

The Trump administration has also escalated the U.S. war against Shabab militants in Somalia, launching 123 airstrikes since early 2017. That’s four times as many as the Obama administration conducted over eight years. The Pentagon has acknowledged only two civilian deaths since 2017. Amnesty International says at least 14 civilians were killed, but on-the-ground reporting is almost impossible.

What’s the common thread? In all these conflicts, the Trump administration is trying to minimize the number of American troops on the ground by disengaging, fighting through proxies or limiting U.S. involvement to airstrikes and special operations.

But that hasn’t reduced the civilian casualties caused by U.S. and allied forces. It has made the problem worse.

It’s tempting to ascribe the change to the tone set by President Trump, who once proposed killing militants’ family members and boasted: “We are not nation-building again. We are killing terrorists.”

U.S. forces haven’t relaxed their prohibitions against targeting civilians. They insist they still take pains to avoid harming innocents.

Instead, most of the increase in civilian casualties has stemmed from a sharp increase in U.S. and allied airstrikes. The Pentagon says its forces in Afghanistan conducted 1,302 airstrikes in the first seven months of this year; that’s more than any full year since 2013.

U.S. and allied forces also relied largely on airstrikes to help retake two urban centers held by Islamic State in 2017: Raqqa in Syria and Mosul in Iraq. Thousands of civilians were caught in the crossfire, or blocked by the militants from fleeing.

“It’s not so much that the gloves are off or that they don’t care about civilians,” Daniel Mahanty, a former State Department official at the Washington-based nonprofit Center for Civilians in Conflict, told me. “It’s that they want to execute these operations in a way that focuses on speed, agility and overwhelming force.”

When the core U.S. strategy in Afghanistan or Iraq was “counterinsurgency,” winning the hearts and minds of civilians was an essential military goal. It’s no longer central.

Local militias and special operations units, some of them directed by the CIA, are partly to blame for the increase in civilian casualties.

One such unit, the Khost Protection Force in eastern Afghanistan, has been accused of a series of abusive actions. On Aug. 11, according to Afghan reports, the force captured and executed 11 unarmed civilians, including several students. Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani fired his national intelligence chief, who helped direct the units.

Saudi Arabia’s war against the Houthis in Yemen has produced the most egregious casualties, with airstrikes hitting hospitals, schools and other civilian targets. The Trump administration is providing the Saudis with intelligence, tactical advice and weaponry — including help in targeting airstrikes.

U.S. military officials have jawboned the Saudis since the war began in 2015 to avoid civilian targets, arguing that harming civilians is counterproductive as well as immoral.

“It is a catastrophe,” then-Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis told a Senate committee last year. He said U.S. advisors were trying to change the Saudi military’s “culture.”

The effort has had no visible effect. Last week, a Saudi airstrike struck a detention camp run by the Houthis inside a university south of Sana, the capital, killing at least 100 people.

After 18 years of grinding wars on distant battlefields, Americans are understandably eager to bring the troops home.

But even if most are pulled out, the Trump administration plans to stay involved in these conflicts — through airstrikes, special operations, intelligence sharing and other aid to “partner forces.” Paradoxical as it may seem, civilian casualties may continue to increase.

We will be tempted to declare that our wars are over. They won’t be.

A few years ago, camping with friends, I watched in awe as Becky set up her pitch. While the rest of us were stringing out guy ropes on tents as glamorous as giant cagoules, she arrived with a bell tent, duvets instead of sleeping bags, sheepskin rugs and vintage folding chairs. For all the talk of breathability, practicality and “high performance” gear, it was Becky’s tent we all wanted to sleep in. In the years since, I have never quite achieved her level of camping chic – until this summer, when I discovered the innovative Spanish camping brand Kampaoh.

It all began back in 2016, when Kampaoh CEO Salvador Lora and his partner were backpacking in the Dominican Republic. One night they came across a campsite with pre-erected tents within which were mattresses and blankets. “We were in the middle of nature, surrounded by peace, and lacked nothing,” he tells me.

Back home in Spain, Salvador wondered if something like that could work there – and decided to experiment setting up a handful of tents in Tarifa. Today the company has 90 sites across Europe, most of them in Spain, but also in Portugal and Italy. Coming across the brand by chance when looking for somewhere to stay in Andalucía, I booked into Camping Los Villares, one of its showcase sites, in the hills above Córdoba.

Arriving in the golden hour, after travelling overland by train, Los Villares looks like a dreamy backdrop to a Sofia Coppola film. From the entrance, the land drops gently away to reveal avenues of cream-coloured canvas tents, the sun filtering through tall Aleppo pines.

Los Villares has a wide range of accommodation, from bell tents to vast, safari-style Bali tents, cute triangular Buka tents (with private, rustic-chic washrooms outside), Tiny Love cabins (with private baths with views), and Tiny Play family cabins (with a slide from their mezzanine bunks down to the living areas). My mid-range Anza is a lofty, triangular tent with a shower and toilet tucked behind the sleeping area and a raised, decked porch. The site is open year-round and the tents have air-conditioning and a small heater. There’s space for basic tent campers and a small campervan area, too.

Outside the school holidays, with the campsite’s restaurant closed midweek, dinner that first night is sliced tomatoes, olives and tortilla foraged from a nearby village shop. As I eat on the terrace, all is deeply peaceful – the wind twisting through pines, blue-tailed Iberian magpies resting on branches overhead.

Inside, my white, cream and wood tent is decorated with fairy lights and faux pot plants; the low platform bed (with proper mattress and pillows!) made up with white bedlinen. Plates, cups and cutlery are provided – and if I’d brought a pet, a mini version of the tent would provide a shady dog bed. An information sheet encourages me to tag @kampaoh on social media; arrival details had been sent via WhatsApp.

It’s perfectly designed to appeal to gen Z travellers, the experience-seeking, social media-canny cohort that are becoming the dominant demographic in travel. While aesthetics are important, blingy, performative luxury is not; conscious of overtourism and the need to prioritise wellbeing, they look for off-the-beaten-track outdoor stays where they can run, swim, surf and cycle, as well as social connection. If Kampaoh’s campsites ticked any more of the demographic’s boxes it would break TikTok.

“We wanted to bring back the magic of connecting with nature and outdoor adventures without giving up comfort or style,” says Lora. “The new generation love experiences like camping but they also have high expectations for design, comfort and aesthetics. Visual appeal isn’t superficial; it’s part of how we live and share our experiences.”

Kampaoh isn’t the only camping brand tapping into this market. In France, the Parisian hotel brand Touriste recently launched three stylishly revamped holiday parks under its Campings Liberté brand, while Huttopia, which began in 2000 with a small, nature-based campsite in the French Alps and a devotion to wood and canvas structures, now offers 152 sites in eight countries. Unlike other glamping providers, the aim is not to add on hotel-style frills, but to increase basic comfort. Setting themselves apart from big, pre-erected tent and cabin operators such as Eurocamp, operators like Kampaoh keep sites relatively small and, crucially, stylish.

As I sit on the restaurant’s terrace sipping coffee the next morning, shielded by fig trees, I watch a steady trickle of campers heading out for the day in hiking or cycling gear. It was 37C in Córdoba when I collected my hire car, but up here it’s a pleasant 26C. With the smell of hot pine needles in the air, I follow them out to explore.

The campsite is in the Parque Periurbano Los Villares, a protected area of 484 hectares (2 sq miles) that’s peppered with bird hides, signposted botanical trails and picnic areas. The GR48 long-distance footpath goes through it, and a network of cycling routes around it. After hiking up to a viewpoint behind the park’s visitor centre to get my bearings, I drive to the small town of Santa María de Trassierra to walk the 20-minute path to the Baños de Popea.

Remote and jungly, this river pool was a favourite spot with Córdoba’s Cántico group of poets and artists in the late 1940s. The tumble of small waterfalls and pools – full from unusual spring rain – form a magical spot, reached through glades of bear’s breech (Acanthus mollis), and paths edged with beams of gorse-like French broom.I could easily spend all day here, but there’s still Córdoba to see, with its parks of orange trees, the shady gardens of the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the famous mosque-cathedral of Mezquita.

The highlight, for me, however, is the Medina Azahara archaeological site, just out of town. Its construction was started in 936 by the first caliph of Al-Andalus, Abd al-Rahman III. This palace-city saw service for only 70 years but its evocative ruins and richly decorated archways are a powerful reminder of its opulence. Walking the Medina’s ancient stones as grasshoppers hop and jasmine scents the hot air, it’s easy to see the appeal of this strategic location, between the mountains and the Guadalquivir River.

Driving into the campsite afterwards, off a road flushed with hot pink oleanders, the landscape is washed in pale gold. Momentarily distracted by the view, I double-take as four hoopoes suddenly appear in front of me, their black and white stripes backlit by the sun. I probably ought to have taken a photo and posted it with the hashtag #kampaohvibes. Instead, I keep very still and watch. Some experiences are still tailormade for us analogue Gen Xers.

The trip was provided by the Spanish Tourist Office, with support from Andalucía and Kampaoh, which is open all year. Anza tents at Kampaoh Córdoba cost from €63 a night for two people, or from €76 a night for four; both minimum two nights

BRITAIN’S top sprotscar manufacturer is axing more than 500 jobs from its UK headquarters.

Half of the brand’s current workforce is facing the sack with president Trumps controversial tariffs said to have played a major role in the shock announcement.

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Lotus is reported to be sacking half the workforce at its factory and HQ at Hethel near Wymondham, Norfolk.

The surprise move is said to be part of a major restructuring within the firm.

A spokesman for Lotus, owned by Chinese giant Geely, confirmed that the job losses highlighted “rapid changes in global policies including tariffs”.

It comes after Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds had a meeting with Lotus bosses earlier this year.

Reynolds said afterwards he was reassured that the manufacturer was committed to the UK despite rumours that it was considering moving production to the US or Poland.

The firm said at the time it had “no plans to close the factory”, but added: “We are actively exploring strategic options to enhance efficiency and ensure global competitiveness in the evolving market.”

It is understood that Lotus had a meeting with local MPs and councillors to explain its restructuring plans and outline the job cuts.

The shocking move is expected to be finalised in December with up to 500 workers now facing the boot.

Lotus said it would also look at increasing integration across the wider Lotus group as part of the shake up.

A spokesperson said the firm “remains fully committed to the UK”, with Norfolk remaining the home of its sports car, motorsports and engineering consulting operations.

South Norfolk MP Ben Goldsborough said it was a “very difficult day for Lotus and for many families in our community.”

He said he would be on hand to support workers affected by the sweeping cuts.

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Netflix House will soon open its doors.

The streaming video giant on Monday announced when it will open its first shopping, dining and entertainment complexes to the public.

The Los Gatos, Calif.-based company will open its first Netflix House in the Philadelphia area on Nov. 12. The company’s Philadelphia area location is located at King of Prussia shopping center, while its second Netflix House at Galleria Dallas will open on Dec. 11. A third location in Las Vegas will open in 2027.

The more than 100,000 square-foot space will offer fan experiences, merchandise and food inspired by Netflix content, in an effort to capitalize on its popular shows, movies and franchises.

For example, fans will be able to take selfies with Queen Charlotte, see screenings of “KPop Demon Hunters” and enjoy Netflix-themed food and cocktails, the company said in a statement.

The Netflix House complexes will be free for people to enter. Some fan experiences, such as Top 9 Mini Golf and immersive VR games in the Philadelphia location, will cost money.

Netflix House is part of the company’s push to expand further into in-person entertainment. The firm hosted balls similar to those featured on Regency era romance “Bridgerton” and worked with retailers and brands to sell clothing and other merchandise inspired by “Squid Game” and “Stranger Things.”

Such experiences also serve as marketing for the shows and movies.

The streamer could eventually have 50 or 60 Netflix House locations globally, said Netflix Co-Chief Executive Ted Sarandos last year at the WSJ Tech Live conference.

A SMALL British carmaker behind a motor Jeremy Clarkson said could “destroy your face” is set to build a huge new factory in the UK.

Ariel – best known for its Atom motor – will build the new structure to the east of Crewkerne in Somerset on a recently acquired 43-acre site.

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The carmakers gained the land after five years of negotiation, with the new building set to open before the end of 2028 at the cost of “a few million”, Ariel boss Simon Saunders said.

Simon said the cost of building a new factory had rapidly risen since the idea was first floated, meaning the firm may need to seek external funding.

Ariel currently sells two vehicles, the Atom and the Nomad, as well as the Dash bicycle, according to its website.

The Ariel Atom, tested on Top Gear in 2005, was described by Clarkson as “so quick, it can destroy your entire face“.

Since its launch in 2000, it has gone through a number of alterations, with the Ariel Atom 4 – released in 2018 – being the most recent version available to customers.

It was awarded Britain’s Best Driver’s Car by Autocar in 2020.

With building the new site, Simon said he wanted to “move to no ordinary industrial unit”, keeping in style with the unique designs of Atom’s motors.

He explained: “While we’ve been waiting to do the land deal, we’ve investigated quite a few styles – circular buildings that might work well for production efficiency, or others whose design is reminiscent of old farm buildings you already find in this area.

“We need space for what we do now, plus a museum, a showroom and a design office. And it’s got to be efficient.”

The new site will be placed close to Atom’s existing factory, meaning Ariel will be able to keep its pre-existing workforce while also adding around 60 new staff.

It also means production capacity should be able to almost double from just 80 units per year to around 150, reports Autocar.

The huge new complex will house Ariel’s expanded manufacturing operation as well as a showroom, a spacious service and spares operation, long-term parts storage, a museum, and an office space for design and administration.

Ariel is also putting an emphasis on environmental efficiency for its new vehicles, Simon said.

The new factory will be capable of carbon capture, its roof will gather solar energy, water will come from a borehole, and there are plans to plant 8000 trees on the site.

Ariel started out in a tiny studio in Simon’s home before moving to its current site in 2007.

However, since Ariel handles advanced design as well as spares, servicing, repairs and used car sales on top of manufacturing, it has been constrained on space for years.

This comes after a 2020 Ariel Atom went to auction last year.

Describing a previous version of the car in 2005, Clarkson said he had “never, ever driven anything that accelerates so fast,” describing the Atom as being “fast on an entirely new level”.

The motor started life as a student project at Coventry University before it was originally launched in 2000.

Other iconic versions include the Ariel Atom 500, which is one of the fastest accelerating production cars ever made – taking just 2.3 seconds to get from 0-62mph.

The Ariel Atom was also voted one of Britain’s 50 best cars ever made by a panel of 10 judges earlier this year.

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Luxury cruising has become synonymous with opulence and service, and these ships are some of the most expensive in the world – but they offer something a little bit special

Luxury cruising has evolved beyond simply travelling from port to port – it’s now about embracing a way of life filled with sophistication, comfort and carefully crafted experiences on the open seas.

Throughout the last ten years, cruise operators have revolutionised their fleets into floating masterpieces, combining the personal touch of boutique accommodation with the magnificence of top-tier resorts.

These ships are crafted not merely to ferry passengers to stunning locations but also to envelop them in the most exquisite facilities conceivable, reports theluxurytravelexpert just days after a new 129-day cruise was launched from Sydney to London with unlimited food and drink.

READ MORE: Road trips to Europe’s most beautiful cities planned using free travel toolREAD MORE: Island you can only visit on cruises has perfect beaches and all-inclusive drinks

1. CRYSTAL SERENITY – CRYSTAL CRUISES.

Freshly rejuvenated, the Crystal Serenity merges traditional elegance with modern luxury. Cabins and suites boast generous proportions, showcasing premium furnishings, private balconies and considerate details including pillow menus and bespoke evening service, reports the Express.

Restaurant options include the Waterside main dining room serving internationally influenced dishes, an elegant Marketplace buffet and the exclusive Vintage Room offering wine-pairing experiences.

6. SCENIC ECLIPSE – SCENIC LUXURY CRUISES & TOURS.

Frequently dubbed the globe’s inaugural “discovery yacht,” Scenic Eclipse provides ultra-premium expedition adventures that merge luxury with exploration. Equipped with twin helicopters, a submersible and numerous Zodiacs, it provides access to isolated locations such as the Arctic, Antarctica and the Mediterranean.

Passengers can enjoy helicopter excursions for panoramic viewing, explore underwater in the submarine, or paddle alongside marine life in pristine waters. 5.

EVRIMA – THE RITZCARLTON YACHT COLLECTION.

Evrima, the inaugural yacht of The RitzCarlton Yacht Collection, sets a new standard by combining the intimate feel of a private yacht with the brand’s signature service and sophistication. Suites are designed with warm natural materials, plush furnishings and luxurious amenities to create serene retreats.

Its intimate size allows access to exclusive, lesser-travelled ports and hidden coves that larger ships cannot reach, delivering unique, immersive destination experiences.

4. EXPLORA 1 – EXPLORA JOURNEYS.

Explora 1, the flagship of Explora Journeys from MSC Group, aims to redefine elegant ocean travel with sustainability and personalisation at its core. Hosting around 918 guests, it offers an intimate atmosphere with spacious, contemporary suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces and a minimalist aesthetic inspired by the Mediterranean.

State-of-the-art technology reduces its environmental footprint, including advanced wastewater treatment and energy-efficient systems.

3. SILVER ENDEAVOUR – SILVERSEA CRUISES.

Purpose-built for polar exploration, Silver Endeavour brings ultra-luxury to the world’s most remote regions without compromising comfort. With an ice-class 6 rating, it navigates Arctic and Antarctic waters to reach pristine destinations such as the Ross Sea and the Northwest Passage.

Onboard, spacious suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows or private verandas, plush bedding and personalised butler service to ensure every detail is attended to.

2. SEABOURN VENTURE – SEABOURN CRUISE LINE.

Seabourn Venture represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury expedition cruising, combining extraordinary adventures with the brand’s lavish comforts. Carrying just 264 guests and built to a robust Polar Class 6 standard, it explores remote polar regions and hidden tropical paradises with confidence.

All-suite accommodations feature elegant furnishings, private verandas and modern amenities including custom-designed beds and deep soaking tubs.

1. SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR – REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES.

Seven Seas Splendor is widely described as the most refined ship ever built, with a construction cost exceeding $600 million – the most expensive cruise ship on a per-passenger basis. Designed for just 750 guests, it delivers exclusivity and sophistication, from custom-crafted furnishings to fine Italian marble.

Suites rank among the most spacious at sea, complete with private balconies, expansive living areas and indulgent marble bathrooms.

A MAJOR snack brand has launched its first new crisps in decades, with packets set to hit stores soon.

The launch comes in two fan-favourite flavours that will be available at a UK supermarkets.

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Nik Naks is shaking up the snack aisle with the introduction of its new shape of crisps that come as Twisters.

This whacky new shape is designed for people to enjoy maximum crunch, to become “the ultimate snack-time sidekick that’ll have you reaching for more”.

It is the first switch up for the iconic knobbly snack that has come for over 40 years.

The Nik Nak Twisters will be available in two fan-favourite flavours – Nice ‘n’ Spicy and Tangy ‘n’ Cheesy.

The snacks will exclusively be available from Sainsbury’s in Octobers.

Buying these new Nik Naks will cost £2.50 per pack for nine 130 gram packets.

John McDougall, Nik Naks and Heritage Portfolio Senior Brand Manager, says “The launch of Twisters marks a revolutionary moment for Nik Naks – our first-ever new shape!

“We’ve taken our iconic flavours and given them a playful new twist.

“We’re so excited for snack lovers across the UK to try them – give them a spin!”

Nik Naks have previously been seen to bring unusual flavours, but known for their knobbly appearance.

A few years ago, they brought back a divisive crisp flavour, which were first available in the 90s.

The Scampi ‘n’ Lemon flavour of Nik Naks were discontinued, in favour of Pickle ‘n’ Onion, in 2008, but made a return in 2022.

Other than the popular Nice ‘n’ Spicy that will soon come in a Twister form, their flavours have also included the Rib ‘n’ Saucy and Cream ‘n’ Cheesy.

Nik Nak’s update also comes just after iconic crisps brand Walkers also launched two new permanent flavours for fans.

This includes the roll out of the a new Sticky Teriyaki flavour, and a Masala Chicken.